In New Jersey, food insecurity exists in all 21 counties. According to Map the Meal Gap, one of the few studies that focuses on food shortages at the local level, 1.1 million people — or one in nine residents — are food insecure across the state. That number includes more than 270,000 children, or one in seven.
In Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties, more than 70,000 people, including 20,000 children, are food insecure. That figure has risen 22% since 2025 and 65% since the pandemic in 2020.
Due to stricter government benefit rules, severe cuts in agricultural funding and rising inflation, food insecurity has reached crisis levels in 2026. Many families are in desperate need of help.
One of the most troubling aspects of food insecurity in South Jersey is that many affected households have at least one adult working full time, while others have adults working part time. Even though these households often earn more than the federal poverty level, rising housing, health care and utility costs have made it difficult to make ends meet. Coupled with soaring food prices, many hardworking families have little hope for financial relief.
Help is on the way. The Central United Methodist Church of Linwood is hosting an open golf tournament, with all net proceeds benefiting the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. As the leading source of nutritious food for more than 800 food pantries, the Community FoodBank serves everyone from infants to seniors. Funds raised during the tournament will directly benefit residents of Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties.
The tournament will take place Thursday, Sept. 24, at Harbor Pines Golf Club, 500 St. Andrews Drive in Egg Harbor Township. Tee time is 11:30 a.m., and the event will conclude at 7 p.m.
Golfers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate, whether they are experienced players or beginners. The event includes full practice facilities, 18 holes of golf with GPS-equipped carts, prize and award opportunities, lunch, dinner and a gift bag.
Participants are encouraged to register early to guarantee a spot. The registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 14.
For more information or to register, contact tournament chair Mike Smith at 609-432-3207 or 43mikesmith43@gmail.com.
Those who are unable to participate are encouraged to support the event by becoming a sponsor. Dinner-only participation is also available.
Families throughout our communities rely on the generosity and support of others. The goal of this event is to help combat food insecurity throughout South Jersey. Its success will help ensure the Community FoodBank of New Jersey can continue serving those in need by keeping its shelves stocked and its doors open.
Make the call, send the email and be part of a cause that will make a meaningful difference.
Roseann Smith is a local freelance writer who resides in Brigantine . A retired Atlantic City school teacher, Roseann enjoys writing feature and human interest stories. On a good day, Roseann is an artist in training.
